According to a 2021 study, zinc does this by helping elevate levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the areas of our brain that control our emotions. When zinc is in low supply, BDNF levels drop, and so does our mood.
Zinc deficiency can lead to depression, increased anxiety, irritability, emotional instability, and induced deficits in social behavior. Clinical studies have shown that low levels of zinc intake contributes to the symptoms of depression and patients suffering from depression have a lower serum zinc level.
According to the Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS), an excessive intake of zinc can cause zinc toxicity. This toxicity can cause gastrointestinal discomfort and, when chronic, may also disrupt the balance of other chemicals in the body, including copper and iron.
Zinc deficiency may result in depression, emotional instability, increased anxiety and aggression, irritability and deficits in social behavior. Additionally, or as consequence of some factors discussed above, impaired memory and capacity to learn may occur.
Zinc is very calming and sedating, as it enhances GABA activity in the brain. A number of studies also show that zinc deficiency causes depression-like and anxiety-like behaviors, and supplementation has successfully been used as a treatment (48-53).
Zinc provides the energy needed for metabolism, and reduced serum zinc levels debilitate the functional capacity of muscles.
Consumption of Zinc helps to have less wake-ups in the night. It is an excellent & safe sleep aid; and also has a calming & antidepressant effect. Along with helping to regulate sleep, Zinc has shown to improve the vividness of dreams.
Food low in zinc can lead to brain fog, making it difficult to focus on the task at hand. It can also be responsible for memory problems.
There is mounting evidence that suggests zinc modifies communication between certain neurons, particularly within the hippocampus — a region of the brain strongly engaged in learning and memory formation — as well as in other parts of the brain that govern olfactory, auditory, and somatosensory perception.
Zinc increases the synthesis of the growth hormone and its number of receptors; thus, it is an important mediator in the binding of this hormone to its receptor. Found in a large quantity in the pancreas tissue, zinc has a part in the regulation of the effect of insulin.
Zinc is considered to be relatively nontoxic, particularly if taken orally. However, manifestations of overt toxicity symptoms (nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, lethargy, and fatigue) will occur with extremely high zinc intakes.
Serious side effects of Zinc
Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Including zinc in your diet every day is okay, provided it is within the recommended daily allowance, which is 8 mg for women and 11 mg for adult men. Since zinc is a trace mineral, consumption of an excess amount can cause health problems.
From the study, we conclude that there was a significant correlation between zinc intake and serum serotonin levels, thus the higher the zinc intake the higher the serum serotonin levels.
Vitamin B-12 and other B vitamins play a role in producing brain chemicals that affect mood and other brain functions. Low levels of B-12 and other B vitamins such as vitamin B-6 and folate may be linked to depression.
Vitamin B12 is a key component in the formation of red blood cells. Its deficiency could lead to an oxygen-transport problem in the blood known as pernicious anemia. This disorder may cause issues like mood swings, paranoia, irritability, confusion, dementia, and hallucinations (or mania).
Can zinc be harmful? Yes, too much zinc can be harmful. Signs of too much zinc include nausea, dizziness, headaches, upset stomach, vomiting, and loss of appetite. If you take too much zinc for a long time, you could have problems such as lower immunity, low levels of HDL ("good") cholesterol, and low copper levels.
Higher doses of zinc can lead to vomiting, headaches, diarrhea and exhaustion. Zinc may also interfere with many common prescription medications, including antibiotics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and immunosuppressant drugs.
Zinc is an essential nutrient that supports many of our body's functions, including immune function, cellular health, and certain brain functions. It can also affect our mood, with zinc deficiencies often linked to anxiety and depression. By maintaining proper zinc levels, we can help improve our overall well-being.
Zinc is a mineral that is essential for many of the body's normal functions and systems, including the immune system, wound healing, blood clotting, thyroid function, and the senses of taste and smell. Zinc also supports normal growth and development during pregnancy, childhood and adolescence.
Magnesium and Zinc are both essential nutrients for health. Magnesium supports muscle relaxation, nerve, heart, and bone health. Zinc is vital for normal growth and development, and supports the body's natural immune defense system. Taking a Magnesium and Zinc supplement together can support well-being.
Its absorption is most effective on an empty stomach, but it can cause stomach upsets. In this case it should be taken with a meal and therefore not late at night. Zinc competes with iron and calcium for absorption, which is why the recommendation is taken in meals that do not contain dairy products.
When it comes to your mood, zinc is a key player in making your neurotransmitters, otherwise known as your happy hormones – serotonin and dopamine. Serotonin, our 'feel good' hormone is in charge of keeping you happy, confident and calm.